15 Best Resident Evil Games Ranked (1996-2024) Zombies Beware

Are you ready to embark on a chilling journey filled with unspeakable horrors and relentless zombies? Look no further, as we have prepared a comprehensive guide to the best Resident Evil games ranked just for you. As one of the most iconic franchises in the survival horror genre, Resident Evil has delivered spine-tingling experiences since its inception in 1996.

With a variety of titles, each bringing a unique flavor of terror and excitement, it's time we take a deep dive into the world of undead nightmares and rank the best of the best. In this article, we'll meticulously discuss and dissect the best Resident Evil games ranked, exploring their most memorable moments, captivating storylines, and innovative gameplay elements.

Whether you're a seasoned veteran seeking nostalgia or a newcomer hoping to indulge in the series' most thrilling moments, our comprehensive list has you covered. So grab your shotgun, gather your herbs, and steady your nerves as we unveil the ultimate Resident Evil ranking.

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Best Resident Evil Games Ranked (1996-2024)

When it comes to ranking the best Resident Evil games, there are a few key points that must be considered. From story elements and atmosphere to combat mechanics and overall replay value, we've evaluated each title based on its individual merits as well as its contribution to the franchise as a whole.

15. Resident Evil (Remake) - 2002

Resident Evil is a survival horror game developed and published by Capcom, with the remake released on March 22, 2002. The game was developed by Capcom Production Studio 4 and directed by Shinji Mikami, with Hiroyuki Kobayashi as the producer. The game's designers include Kouji Kakae, Joesuke Kaji, and Shigenori Nishikawa.

The programmer for the game is Hideaki Motozuka, the artists are Naoki Katakai, and the composers are Shusaku Uchiyama, Makoto Tomozawa, and Misao Senbongi. Resident Evil is part of the Resident Evil franchise and is playable on various platforms, including GameCube, Wii, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.

The game takes place in a mansion in the Arklay Mountains, where players take on the role of either Chris Redfield or Jill Valentine, members of the Special Tactics and Rescue Service (STARS) sent to investigate the disappearance of their fellow STARS members. Upon arrival, they discover that the mansion is infested with zombies and other creatures, and their mission quickly turns into a fight for survival. The gameplay revolves around exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat, with a focus on resource management and survival.

The Resident Evil remake features updated graphics, improved controls, and new gameplay elements. The game's graphics were updated to take advantage of GameCube's hardware, providing a more immersive and atmospheric experience. The game's controls were also improved, with a new aiming system and more fluid movement.

The game also features new areas and puzzles, as well as additional enemies not present in the original game. Additionally, the game includes a new "Crimson Head" mechanic, where defeated zombies can come back to life as more powerful enemies if not dealt with properly.

Resident Evil is widely regarded as a classic of the survival horror genre, known for its intense atmosphere, challenging gameplay, and iconic characters. The game's success led to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations in other media, including films and novels. The game's influence can still be felt in modern survival horror games, with many developers citing it as an inspiration for their own work. The Resident Evil remake is a must-play for fans of the genre and an essential part of the series' history.

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14. Resident Evil Village - 2021

Resident Evil Village is a survival horror video game developed and published by Capcom and is the eighth major installment in the Resident Evil series. The game was released on May 7, 2021, and is available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC. It is a single-player video game that features intense horror elements and challenges players to survive in a dangerous and terrifying world.

The story of Resident Evil Village takes place a few years after the events of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard. The game follows Ethan Winters, the protagonist from the previous game, as he searches for his kidnapped daughter in a mysterious village in Europe. Along the way, he encounters various creatures and enemies, including werewolves, vampires, and other monstrosities. The game features a variety of different environments, ranging from dark forests and haunted castles to abandoned villages and underground caves.

One of the standout features of Resident Evil Village is its graphics and visual design. The game features stunning visuals and detailed environments, which add to the overall immersion and horror of the experience. The game's audio design is also top-notch, with chilling sound effects and an atmospheric soundtrack that heightens the tension and fear.

The gameplay in Resident Evil Village is similar to previous games in the series, with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players must scavenge for resources and weapons to survive, and must carefully manage their inventory and health. The game also introduces some new features, such as a crafting system that allows players to create new items and weapons from materials found in the environment.

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13. Resident Evil - 1996

The game is set in various locations around the world and follows different characters as they navigate through zombie-infested environments, often trying to uncover a larger conspiracy at work. The franchise has spawned multiple sequels, spin-off games, novels, comics, films, and television shows.

Resident Evil is a survival horror video game franchise that was created by Shinji Mikami and Tokuro Fujiwara and is owned by Capcom. The franchise first began in 1996 with the release of the original Resident Evil game and has since become one of the most popular and successful horror game series in history.

The gameplay of Resident Evil is centered around exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players are often tasked with finding key items, unlocking doors, and defeating various monsters and bosses in order to progress through the game. The franchise is also known for its "survival horror" elements, which include limited resources such as ammunition and healing items, and a generally tense and spooky atmosphere.

One of the defining features of the franchise is its use of different characters and settings throughout the various games. The original Resident Evil game took place in a mansion in the outskirts of Raccoon City, while later games took place in various other locations such as a police station, a prison island, and a city under siege by a bioweapon outbreak.

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12. Resident Evil 7: Biohazard - 2017

The game's graphics and sound design are top-notch, and the RE Engine developed by Capcom is responsible for the game's stunning visuals. The game is available on a variety of platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, and Google Stadia.

Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is a single-player survival horror video game developed by Capcom and released on January 24, 2017. The game is the 11th main entry in the Resident Evil series and the first game in the series to be played from a first-person perspective. The game's story follows Ethan Winters, a civilian who is searching for his missing wife, Mia, in a plantation mansion in Louisiana. The mansion is owned by the Baker family, who are infected by a mutagenic virus and turned into terrifying creatures.

One of the most notable aspects of Resident Evil 7: Biohazard is its immersive gameplay, which is further enhanced by the game's VR capabilities. The game was awarded The Game Award for Best VR Game in 2017, thanks to its intense and realistic gameplay that completely immerses players in the game's terrifying world.

The game's composer, Miwako Chinone, did an excellent job of creating a haunting and eerie soundtrack that perfectly complements the game's horror elements. The game's sound design is also noteworthy, as the game's audio cues and effects play a crucial role in creating a terrifying atmosphere.

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11. Resident Evil Revelations 2 - 2015

The game follows the story of Claire Redfield and Moira Burton, who are kidnapped and taken to an abandoned island. They must work together to fight off hordes of zombies and other bio-organic weapons to find a way to escape the island. The game also introduces a new type of enemy called "The Afflicted," which are humans infected with a new strain of the T-Phobos virus.

It is a survival horror video game that was released in 2015 for various gaming platforms such as PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and Microsoft Windows. Developed by Capcom and Frima Studio, this game is a sequel to Resident Evil Revelations and is set between Resident Evil 5 and Resident Evil 6.

In Resident Evil Revelations 2, players can switch between controlling Claire and Moira or Barry Burton and a young girl named Natalia Korda. The game also includes a cooperative multiplayer mode, which allows players to team up and fight off the infected together.

The game's graphics and gameplay are powered by the MT Framework engine, which provides stunning visuals and smooth gameplay mechanics. The game also features a dynamic lighting system that adds to the game's overall eerie atmosphere.

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10. Resident Evil 3: Nemesis - 1999

One of the most memorable aspects of Resident Evil 3: Nemesis is the titular Nemesis, a hulking monster that relentlessly pursues the player throughout the game. The Nemesis is highly intelligent and will actively hunt down the player, even following them between different areas of the game. This creates a sense of tension and fear that is unparalleled in other survival horror games.

The game's graphics were considered cutting-edge at the time of its release, and the pre-rendered backgrounds and 3D character models still hold up well today. The game's sound design is also notable, with a haunting soundtrack and eerie sound effects that add to the atmosphere of fear and dread.

Resident Evil 3: Nemesis is a survival horror game developed by Capcom and released on September 22, 1999. The game is set in the fictional city of Raccoon City, where a deadly virus outbreak has turned the majority of the population into zombies. The player takes on the role of Jill Valentine, a member of the elite S.T.A.R.S. team, who must fight for survival and escape the city.

The game is played from a third-person perspective, and the gameplay involves exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The player must navigate the city and its various locations, including streets, buildings, and underground tunnels while avoiding or fighting off hordes of zombies and other mutated creatures.

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9. Resident Evil Revelations - 2012

The gameplay of Resident Evil Revelations combines elements of survival horror, action-adventure, third-person shooter, and adventure genres. The game features a third-person perspective, and players must use a variety of weapons and items to fight off the infected enemies. The game also includes puzzles that players must solve to progress through the story.

One of the unique features of Resident Evil Revelations is the episodic nature of the game. The story is divided into twelve chapters, with each chapter playing out like an episode of a TV show. This format adds to the tension and suspense of the game, as players are left with cliffhangers at the end of each chapter.

Resident Evil Revelations is a survival horror game that was initially released on January 26, 2012. The game was developed using the MT Framework engine and is available on various platforms, including Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Wii U, and Microsoft Windows.

The game's story follows the characters Jill Valentine and Chris Redfield as they investigate a terrorist organization called Veltro. The organization has released a new virus called the T-Abyss virus, which turns people into terrifying creatures. The game takes place on a cruise ship called Queen Zenobia, which has been taken over by Veltro. As players progress through the game, they uncover the secrets of the virus and Veltro's true motives.

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8. Resident Evil 5 - 2009

Resident Evil 5 is a survival horror game developed and published by Capcom, one of the leading video game developers in the world. The game was released on 5th March 2009 and is available on various platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Android, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Microsoft Windows, and Nvidia Shield TV. The game was designed by Jiro Taoka and features the Havok and MT Framework engines, which contribute to the game's impressive graphics and gameplay mechanics.

In Resident Evil 5, players take on the role of Chris Redfield, a former member of the S.T.A.R.S. organization, who is sent to Africa to investigate a new biological threat. Along with his partner Sheva Alomar, Chris discovers a sinister plot involving the Umbrella Corporation, the organization responsible for creating the virus that turned humans into zombies.

The game is played from a third-person perspective and features both single-player and multiplayer modes. In the single-player mode, players control Chris and Sheva as they explore various locations, solve puzzles, and battle hordes of infected enemies. The game's combat system allows players to use a wide range of weapons, including handguns, shotguns, and rifles, to take down their enemies.

The game's multiplayer mode is a cooperative experience, allowing two players to work together to complete the game's campaign. This model also features a "Versus" mode, where players can compete against each other in a variety of game modes, including team-based matches and free-for-all battles.

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7. Resident Evil 3 (Remake) - 2020

One of the notable aspects of Resident Evil 3 (Remake) is its audio design, which has been nominated for The Game Award for Best Audio Design. The game's composers, Ko-Ta and Masami Ueda have created a chilling soundtrack that perfectly captures the horror and suspense of the game.

The gameplay of Resident Evil 3 (Remake) revolves around survival and combat. The player has to scavenge for resources such as ammunition, health items, and weapons while fighting off hordes of zombies and other bioweapons. The game also features puzzles that the player needs to solve to progress through the story.

Resident Evil 3 (Remake) is a survival horror, third-person shooter, and adventure game developed by Capcom and released on April 3, 2020, for multiple platforms including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, and Series S, Microsoft Windows, and Amazon Luna. The game is a remake of the original Resident Evil 3 game that was released in 1999.

The game is set in the fictional Raccoon City, which is overrun by zombies due to a deadly virus outbreak. The player takes control of Jill Valentine, a former member of the Special Tactics And Rescue Service (S.T.A.R.S.), as she tries to escape the city while being hunted by the bioweapon, Nemesis. The game features both single-player and multiplayer modes.

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6. Resident Evil 4 - 2005

The game's story takes place six years after the events of Resident Evil 2 and follows the main protagonist, Leon S. Kennedy, a former police officer who is now a government agent. He is tasked with rescuing the President's daughter, Ashley Graham, from a cult-like group called Los Illuminados in a remote village in Spain. The game's setting and story are a departure from the previous Resident Evil games, which took place in fictional locations such as Raccoon City.

Resident Evil 4 is known for its innovative gameplay mechanics that set the standard for future third-person shooter games. The game introduced the "over-the-shoulder" perspective, which allowed for more precise aiming and shooting. The game also featured a new "context-sensitive" control system, which allowed players to interact with objects and the environment in a more dynamic way. This feature made the game's puzzles more challenging and engaging.

Resident Evil 4 is a third-person shooter, action-adventure game that was released on January 11, 2005, and developed by Capcom, Capcom Production Studio 4, and Armature Games. The game is widely recognized as one of the best survival horror games of all time and has won numerous awards for its gameplay, graphics, and overall experience. It is available on various platforms, including PlayStation 4, Android, PlayStation 2, and GameCube.

One of the game's most memorable features is its enemies, which are known as Los Ganados. These villagers are infected with a parasite that has taken over their minds and bodies, turning them into aggressive, zombie-like creatures. The game's enemies are notoriously difficult to kill, and the player must manage their inventory and resources carefully to survive.

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5. Resident Evil CODE: Veronica X - 2000

This is a survival horror game that was initially released on February 3, 2000, for various platforms, including PlayStation 2, PlayStation 4, Dreamcast, GameCube, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360. The game was developed by Capcom, Sega, Capcom Production Studio 4, and MORE, and it is a single-player video game that falls under the genres of survival horror, third-person shooter, and adventure game.

The game's story revolves around Claire Redfield, who is searching for her brother Chris after the events that occurred in Resident Evil 2. She ends up being captured and sent to a prison on an island owned by the Umbrella Corporation, where she must fight to survive against various creatures and uncover the mysteries surrounding the corporation's involvement in her brother's disappearance.

One of the notable features of Resident Evil CODE: Veronica X is its improved graphics and sound quality, which were a significant improvement from its predecessors. The game also introduced new gameplay mechanics, such as the ability to dual-wield weapons and the inclusion of a lockpicking system.

The game received critical acclaim upon its release and was nominated for the VGX Award for Best Animation. The game's soundtrack, composed by Hijiri Anze, Takeshi Miura, and Sanae Kasahara, was also well-received, and its atmospheric music perfectly complements the game's horror theme.

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4. Resident Evil 2 (Remake) - 2019

The game is built on the RE Engine, which is a proprietary game engine developed by Capcom. The RE Engine has been used in several other Capcom games, including Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, Devil May Cry 5, and Resident Evil 3 (Remake). The engine provides a high level of graphical fidelity, allowing for incredibly detailed environments and character models.

Resident Evil 2 (Remake) is a single-player game that follows the story of Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, two characters who are caught up in the zombie outbreak in Raccoon City. The game features a third-person perspective and gameplay that revolves around exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players must scavenge for resources, manage their inventory, and fight off hordes of zombies and other monsters.

It is a survival horror video game developed and published by Capcom. It was released on January 25, 2019, for multiple platforms, including PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X and Series S, Microsoft Windows, and Amazon Luna. It is a remake of the original Resident Evil 2 game, which was released back in 1998.

The game was well-received by both critics and fans, with many praising its graphics, gameplay mechanics, and faithful adaptation of the original game's story. Resident Evil 2 (Remake) was nominated for several awards, including The Game Award for Game of the Year.

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3. Resident Evil Zero - 2002

Set in the Arklay Mountains in 1998, the game follows the story of Rebecca Chambers, a member of the special police force, and Billy Coen, a former Marine convicted of war crimes. The duo becomes stranded in the mountains while investigating a series of murders, which leads them to discover a sinister plot involving a pharmaceutical company, zombies, and monsters.

The game's graphics and art direction were highly praised, earning it a nomination for the Satellite Award for Outstanding Art Direction - Interactive Media. The game's soundtrack, composed by Seiko Kobuchi, is also widely recognized as one of the best in the Resident Evil series.

Resident Evil Zero is a single-player video game developed by Capcom, Tose, Capcom Production Studio 4, Flagship, and Capcom Production Studio 3. It was initially released on 12 November 2002 and is part of the Resident Evil series. The game is available on various platforms such as GameCube, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox One, Xbox 360, and Microsoft Windows.

Resident Evil Zero features a unique gameplay mechanic where players control both Rebecca and Billy simultaneously. Players can switch between characters on the fly, and both characters have unique skills and abilities that complement each other. The game also introduces a new inventory management system, where players have to leave items behind in real time to progress through the game.

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2. Resident Evil 6 - 2012

Resident Evil 6, developed and published by Capcom, was initially released on October 2, 2012. The game is a popular installment in the long-running Resident Evil series and is designed by Jiro Taoka. The sixth entry in the main series, Resident Evil 6 offers players a blend of action-adventure and survival horror gameplay, as they face off against an array of undead and mutated creatures.

The game was built on the MT Framework and MT Framework 2.0 engines, known for their impressive graphics and flexible rendering capabilities. The game is available across multiple platforms, including PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and Microsoft Windows, allowing for a wide range of players to experience the gripping narrative and intense gameplay.

The story of Resident Evil 6, written by Shōtarō Suga, is set in a world grappling with the aftermath of bioterrorist attacks. The game features a unique narrative structure, dividing the story into four distinct, yet interconnected campaigns, each with its own protagonist and supporting character. This design choice allows players to experience multiple perspectives on the unfolding events, as well as providing diverse gameplay experiences.

The title supports multiplayer gaming, with both cooperative and competitive modes available for players to enjoy. The game's musical score, composed by Akihiko Narita, creates an atmospheric backdrop that complements the horror elements and enhances the overall experience, helping to solidify Resident Evil 6 as a memorable addition to the iconic series.

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1. Resident Evil 2 - 2019

In this survival horror game, players find themselves in a zombie-infested Raccoon City. The game takes place two months after the events of the first game and features two playable characters, Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield. The gameplay mechanics of Resident Evil 2 have been completely overhauled since the original game, offering players a more immersive and intense experience. With the new RE Engine, the game's graphics are stunning, making the horror elements even more terrifying. The game also includes new puzzles, enemy types, and scenarios, adding to the overall thrill of the game.

Resident Evil 2 features a memorable "Zapping System" that changes the story and gameplay depending on which character the player chooses to play first. This system creates a sense of replayability and encourages players to complete the game multiple times. Players can also unlock new weapons, costumes, and game modes by completing the game on different difficulty levels.

One of the standout features of this game is its sound design. The soundtrack, composed by Shusaku Uchiyama and Zhenlan Kang, perfectly complements the game's horror atmosphere, adding to the overall immersion of the game. The sound effects are also expertly crafted, making every creak, groan, and growl of the zombies even more spine-tingling.

Resident Evil 2 received critical acclaim upon release, with many praising its updated gameplay mechanics, stunning graphics, and immersive sound design. The game was nominated for several awards, including the Game of the Year at The Game Awards. It has also been included in many "Best Games of 2019" lists, cementing its place as one of the best survival horror games of all time.

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Final Words

Starting from the classic original game, all the way to the latest installment, Resident Evil Village, the franchise has come a long way in terms of graphics, gameplay, and storytelling. Each game has its own unique charm and offers players an immersive experience in the world of survival horror.

Whether you're a fan of the older games or the newer remakes and sequels, one thing is for sure – Resident Evil remains a staple in the gaming community, and its legacy will continue to terrify and thrill players for years to come. So, if you haven't played any of these games yet, it's high time to dive into this iconic series and see what all the fuss is about.